UNIFAST Scholarship 2025/2026 – Everything You Need to Know

Apply for the UNIFAST Scholarship 2025/2026 and access government-funded programs like the Tertiary Education Scholarship, Education Grant, and Student Loan. Check eligibility, requirements, and application steps now.

The Unified Financial Assistance System for Tertiary Education (UNIFAST) is a Federal Government initiative designed to manage and streamline all student financial aid programs in Nigeria. For the 2025/2026 academic year, the UNIFAST Scholarship and its associated programs are providing support for qualified students in public tertiary institutions.

This article covers all you need to know: eligibility, programs, requirements, and how to apply.

What is UNIFAST?

UNIFAST (Unified Financial Assistance System for Tertiary Education in Nigeria) is under the Federal Ministry of Education, and it coordinates various financial support systems for Nigerian students. Its goal is to ensure equal access to education by reducing the financial burden on students.

UNIFAST brings multiple scholarship and support programs under one umbrella, allowing for easier access and monitoring.

UNIFAST Programs for 2025/2026

Here are the major financial aid programs under UNIFAST:

1. Tertiary Education Scholarship

This program provides tuition-free education for qualified students in public tertiary institutions. It targets high-performing students who demonstrate academic excellence.

2. Education Grant

This is a non-repayable grant offered to students from low-income households. It is designed to help with living expenses, educational materials, and transport.

3. Student Loan Scheme (NELFUND Loan)

Recently revived under the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND), this program offers interest-free loans to eligible students. The repayment starts two years after graduation or when the student becomes employed.

4. Conditional Cash Transfer for Students

Aimed at students from disadvantaged communities, this program provides monthly stipends to encourage school retention and reduce dropout rates.

5. Special Support for STEM and Education Students

Additional support is given to students in Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics (STEM) fields, and Education-related courses, to encourage more enrollment in these critical areas.

UNIFAST Scholarship 2025/2026 – Overview

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must meet the following conditions:

• Be a Nigerian citizen.

• Enrolled in a public tertiary institution.

• Have a valid JAMB registration number.

• Maintain a minimum CGPA (varies per school/program).

• Not currently benefiting from another federal scholarship.

• For loans: must have a guarantor and valid means of identification.

Required Documents

Ensure you have:

• Admission letter

• JAMB result slip

• Passport photograph

• Valid school ID or course registration slip

• Academic transcript/result

• National ID/Birth certificate

• Bank account details

• For loans: Guarantor’s ID and employment info

How to Apply for UNIFAST Scholarship Program 2025/2026

1. Visit the Official Portal:
   When open, the portal will be accessible via https://www.nelf.gov.ng or the Federal Ministry of Education site.

2. Create an Account:
   Use a valid email and phone number to register.

3. Fill the Application Form:
   Provide accurate academic and personal details.

4. Select the Program:
   Choose whether you’re applying for a scholarship, grant, loan, or other support.

5. Upload Required Documents

6. Submit and Print Confirmation Slip

Application Deadline

The official deadline for the UNIFAST Scholarship 2025/2026 has not been announced yet. Check regularly on:

• https://www.nelf.gov.ng

• Ministry of Education platforms

• Your school’s student affairs division or website

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I apply for more than one UNIFAST program?
You can only apply for one at a time, depending on your eligibility.

Is the UNIFAST Loan repayable?
Yes, but it is interest-free and payable after two years of graduation or employment.

Are private university students eligible?
No. Only students in public institutions can apply.

Will I receive cash if selected?
Depending on the program, you may receive direct payment (grants or loans) or have your tuition paid on your behalf.

See also: Alix Earle Scholarship 2025/2026: Apply Now at University of Miami

Conclusion

The UNIFAST Scholarship 2025/2026 is an incredible opportunity for students across Nigeria to benefit from tuition support, education grants, and student loans. If you are a student in a public institution, take full advantage of this initiative to fund your education and reduce financial stress.